20 Bar Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine, Compact Espresso Coffee Machine with Stainless Steel Milk Frother for Latte, Cappuccino, Black

Looking for an inexpensive espresso machine that will get the job done? This one from Nesskoko may be the perfect fit for you. What I like:1. The aesthetic design. With the rounded corners and rails on top, it evokes old-time espresso machines, not more boxy modern ones. One could almost say that it’s somewhat patterned after the Illy anniversary machines, which are like beautiful works of art. This one doesn’t go quite that far, but I like it and it will look fantastic in your kitchen, to the point of being a conversation starter.2. The size. Man, if you love espresso and you have limited counter space, this is the machine for you. So much smaller than the one it is replacing. Think of it as a Keurig slim as far as size goes.3. The coffee. Oh yeah, the important part! Makes a pretty darned good cup of espresso–once you figure out the correct proportions. See below for more on that. But this has good extraction, good crema, and overall, gives you the tasty hit of really strong coffee to get you through the day. Foamer also works well.What I don’t like:1. The aforementioned “once you figure out the correct proportions” of water and coffee. The machine doesn’t really give you a way to control the amount of water that goes into a cup, so you get what you get. If you want your espresso a little more/a little less watery, you will have to figure that out on your own.2. The color. I’m not super crazy about the white color, and in retrospect, I’d go black or red. The white is not a bright white; it’s more of muted white. This is really just personal preference.Overall, a very impressive machine for the price. We will have to see about the durability, but I can tell you that you will not be unhappy with this espresso maker; it makes a cup that I would rank right up there with much pricier units. Make the strength (water amount) adjustable, and this would be a five-star home run, no doubt. As it is, it’s a solid triple and very much a “buy” for me.